Vacant shopfronts can now be transformed into cafes, pop-up shops, galleries and even community markets for up to six months without requiring planning approval. The move comes as the City continues to review its existing local planning policies in a bid to reduce red tape.
CEO Andrew Brien said supporting local businesses continues to be a priority for the City.
“Allowing vacant shops in our town centres to be temporarily occupied for up to six months, without the need for planning approval, will help ensure our retail centres remain vibrant and engaging places to visit.
“Removing the need for planning approval in the short-term will allow vacant shops to be occupied without delay. There are so many ways spaces can be activated. Vacant shops can be transformed into cafes, pop-up shops, galleries or even markets.
“Pushing the requirement for planning approval out to six months will also take the pressure off landlords who are often out of pocket during the hunt for a new tenant.
“Budding entrepreneurs may want to take the opportunity to try out a new business idea without committing to a long-term lease while shoppers are treated to a new experience – it really is a win win situation.
“Pilates with Bec in Maylands is a wonderful example of how cutting red tape has resulted in a positive outcome for the local business, landlord and the community.
“Pilates with Bec studio temporarily moved into the vacant space at 67 Eighth Avenue and things went so well she signed a permanent lease.
“The City’s revised policy allowed the business to open immediately without approval, gauge customer interest and test out the space before applying for planning approval to continue operating permanently.
The recent change to the City’s planning policy complements a range of red tape reduction measures the City has put in place to assist businesses. These include removing the need for planning approval for alfresco dining, and adopting simple guidelines to encourage the installation of planter boxes outside businesses in town centres and parklets such as those located outside Milkd in Maylands or tbsp. in Bayswater.